ISSN 2370-5965 | Spring 2026 FOCUS ON ONE HEALTH
Legacy Council revises position on antimicrobial stewardship
Council welcomes Ted Arnott
ISSN 2370-5965 | Spring 2026 FOCUS ON ONE HEALTH
Legacy Council revises position on antimicrobial stewardship
The College Council demonstrates its continued commitment to veterinary stewardship in the use of antimicrobials in animals with an update to its position on antimicrobial stewardship.
“ As veterinarians, we have a duty to society to embrace antimicrobial stewardship with prudent and responsible use of antimicrobial drugs. Every veterinarian has a role in preserving the effectiveness of antimicrobials for necessary use in animals and humans,” said Dr. Louise Kelly, President of the College.
At its March meeting, the Legacy Council updated its position on antimicrobial stewardship. The revised position stresses the College sees antimicrobial stewardship as a core professional responsibility, central to animal welfare and public protection. The College encourages veterinarians to incorporate stewardship into their daily practice.
“ Education is key to advancing antimicrobial stewardship. An addition to our position is a commitment to assist veterinarians with accessing antimicrobial stewardship resources and supporting them in educating clients about antimicrobial use,” said Dr. Kelly.
The College’ s Strategic Plan commits to work in One Health, where Council’ s objective includes its position on veterinary stewardship and also researching antimicrobial prescribing behaviors in veterinary medicine.
The revised position statement, Responsible Prescribing of Antimicrobial Drugs in Animal Health Care Through Antimicrobial Stewardship, is currently available on the College website.
Council welcomes Ted Arnott
College President Dr. Louise Kelly welcomed new Council member Ted Arnott to the March meeting. Arnott was appointed to College Council by the provincial government. Arnott served in the Legislative Assembly of Ontario as a Member of Provincial Parliament from 1990 to 2025, and was Speaker of the House from 2018 to 2025.
More Legacy and Transition Council news on Page 2 & 3